In any health crisis, financial planning can become crucial to good health. Not having to worry each day about how the bills will get paid can relieve some stress during an already stressful time.

All of us need to be thoughtful about our financial circumstances, before we get sick and after. These are just a few financial resources we have found to be helpful and may include some you have not considered:

What is financial planning?It is the process of meeting your life goals through the proper management of your finances.

What is a financial plan?It is the tangible result of recommendations and alternatives developed for you after consulting with a certified financial planner.

How will financial planning help me?A financial plan provides additional security, direction, and recommendations to meet your short-term and long-term life goals, as well as provides ways to adapt to changes and stay on track to meet those goals.

Who can use the term financial planner?Unfortunately anyone can call themselves a financial planner, so you should do your research and ask for recommendations from friends or family. Someone who has a Certified Financial Planner TM mark or CFP has taken extra steps to demonstrate their professionalism by voluntarily submitting to the rigorous CFP certification process which includes demanding education, examination, experience, and ethical requirements. For more information, visit www.cfp.net.

What is the best ageto start financial planning?The younger you start, the more beneficial the process will be. Successful financial planning is a process which takes time and adjustments along the way to ensure you are staying on track to meet your goals and objectives.

An emergency fund
A centralized location for all important documents
A list of critical phone numbers
An updated will
Current health care advance medical directives, health care proxies and durable (financial) power of attorney.
A list of assets
Instructions regarding care of pets

How do I find an appropriate health insurance program for my needs?The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides information and resources to help find insurance, even for people with an existing disability. You can also contact your state’s Department of Insurance.